The success of a
student’s education relies on a collaborative partnership between the student,
parents, school staff, and the broader community. This section outlines the
fundamental rights granted to students and the responsibilities expected from
both students and parents in supporting a safe, respectful, and effective
learning environment. By understanding these rights and responsibilities, all
parties can work together to foster an atmosphere of mutual respect and
academic success.
Attendance
Students are expected to attend school daily, arrive to
classes on time, provide a written explanation or documentation for any
absences within three (3) days, and request make-up assignments upon returning.
Students have the right to be informed of school policies on absenteeism,
appeal decisions about absences, and make-up missed class work within one (1)
day for each day absent. For more
information, please see Board Policy 5200.
Academic Honor Code
Students are responsible for maintaining high academic
integrity by presenting their own work on all assignments, tests, and projects,
including standardized tests, unless otherwise specified by the teacher to
utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI), adhering to Board
Policies 5505 and 7540.08. Students must not assist others in cheating or
engage in any form of academic dishonesty and are expected to reject academic
dishonesty in others. Students have the right to work in an environment based
on trust and integrity, knowing that the entire school community will promote
honesty and that cheating and plagiarism will not be tolerated.
Students are responsible for being
present for the majority of the school day to participate in extracurricular
activities, such as dances, special events, club activities, and athletics,
unless otherwise approved by school administration. A student’s behavior,
academic performance, and age may affect their eligibility to participate in
extracurricular activities, as outlined by Fla. Stat. §1006.15, and school policies, including Board Policy 5610.05, which set specific eligibility requirements for
participation.
Code of Civility
Students and parents are
responsible for upholding the principles outlined in the Code of Civility by:
· Treating each
other with courtesy and respect by:
· Listening carefully with regard for others as they express their
opinions, different as they may be;
· Sharing opinions and concerns using appropriate language and
gestures and without profanity.
· Demonstrating
kindness by:
· Treating each other in positive ways;
· Avoiding behavior or language that is demeaning, abusive, or
obscene in any communications to include, but not be limited to, class
messaging, email, or social media.
· Cooperating with
each other by:
· Responding in supportive ways when asked for assistance;
· Recognizing and respecting time constraints and obligations faced
by everyone involved;
· Notifying others about safety, academics, or events that might
impact education and contribute to the common goal of supporting students and
the school campus learning environment.
Free Speech / Expression / Assembly
Students
are responsible for respecting the rights of others, expressing disagreements
in a way that does not disrupt the educational process, and maintaining the
dignity of patriotic observances such as the Pledge of Allegiance and the
National Anthem, following guidelines established by the U.S. Congress and
Florida law. A student has the right not to participate in reciting the Pledge.
Upon written request by the student's parent, the student must be excused from
reciting the Pledge, including standing and placing the right hand over the
student's heart, as per Board Policy 8810. Students must also seek approval
for activities aligned with the school’s educational objectives and respect the
religious beliefs of others. Students have the right to express their
viewpoints in a respectful manner, affirm their identity with American ideals,
refrain from activities that conflict with their religion, and peacefully
assemble on school grounds in accordance with regulations. Students must not
slander, libel, or discriminate, and must adhere to the Code.
Parents Rights
Parents
are vital partners in their child’s education and play an essential role in
promoting a safe, supportive, and respectful learning environment. Parents have
the right to expect clear communication, effective instruction, and a safe
school setting where their child is treated fairly and with dignity. They may
review their child’s records, access academic information, and be informed of
their child’s progress. Parents can also expect to be heard and treated
respectfully when raising questions or concerns.
Parents are responsible for supporting school
expectations. This includes reviewing the Code with their child, ensuring the
school has updated medical and emergency contact information, and providing
necessary documentation when requested. Parents must arrange for timely
drop-off and pick-up in accordance with school supervision hours, report
relevant court orders, and support school efforts to ensure their child’s
well-being. They are also expected to follow medication guidelines, respond
promptly if their child is ill or injured, and reimburse the school for lost or
damaged items. Together, schools and families create the conditions for student
success.
Right to Learn and Participate
Students are
responsible for requesting participation in academic programs and
extracurricular activities. They are also responsible for cooperating with
instructors and contributing to an environment free from bias and prejudice. Students
must fully engage in learning and strive to master the Florida Standards.
Students have the right to equal opportunities in academic programs and extracurricular
activities within the school's feasible limits, to receive instruction from
qualified teachers in a bias-free environment, and to participate in
grade-appropriate instruction aligned with the Florida Standards.
Safety and Security
Maintaining
a safe and secure environment is a top priority in Marion County Public
Schools. All students have the right to attend school and school events free
from harm, fear, or harassment. The Code supports this belief and guides school
expectations. The District works closely with law enforcement to address
unlawful activity and uses video cameras across campuses to promote safety, and
to monitor conduct. Parents and students must keep enrollment and emergency
contact information current in the Skyward Parent Portal to ensure timely
communication during an emergency.